Rotary – Creating the Next Generation of Peacemakers

September 14, 2012

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: Indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.”– Margaret Mead

The idea of education as a way to foster peace is an old one. But putting it into practice on a global scale through a private organization is groundbreaking. The Rotary Foundation has been a pioneer in creating an effective curriculum of peace.

Rotary began as an idea more than 100 years ago. Today, the organization flourishes worldwide with 1.2 million members in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The Rotary Foundation was created in 1917 and its mission is to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. In 1987-88, the foundation held its first peace forums, leading to the establishment of it’s peace and conflict studies programs.

Today, the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International has partnered with leading universities around the world to provide a unique fellowship opportunity for students to receive a master’s degree in international relations, sustainable development, peace studies, conflict resolution, or a professional development certificate in peace and conflict studies. Rotary Peace Fellows go on to become leaders promoting national and international cooperation, peace, and the successful resolution of conflict throughout their lives, in their careers, and through service activities.

Alumni of the program work in a variety of areas, including grassroots and local nongovernmental organizations, national governments, the military, law enforcement, and bilateral and international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, International Organization for Migration, and Organization of American States. Alumni also benefit from the support of a worldwide network of close to 700 alumni committed to building peace.

Fellowship funding includes

Tuition and fees

Room and board

Round-trip transportation

Internship (master’s degree) or field study expenses (professional development certificate)

A sustainable foundation for peace starts with a proven process for teaching each generation the skills of peace-making and conflict resolution. The Rotary Peace Fellows program is showing us how to make this a reality.